Body Found in Eel River Between Scotia and Rio Dell

A body was discovered in the waters of the Eel River between Scotia and Rio Dell around mid-day today. The individual was found in the middle of the river between Scotia and Rio Dell, said Rio Dell Police Chief Graham Hill.

“The river is shallow there,” he stated, “and we were able to secure the individual with the help of the Scotia [and Rio Dell] Fire Department.”

The body had probably been there through the night, he believes.

According to Hill, the person had been reported missing earlier. “An individual was reported to me as having left yesterday and been in the area of the river and didn’t return,” he explained. “We searched the area and located the individual.”

The incident is being investigated by the Rio Dell Police Department and the Humboldt County Coroner’s Office. Hill said at this point they do not believe foul play occurred. “I don’t think there is anything particularly suspicious,” he said.